There are so many great options when it comes to creating a fabulous event for all ages - so read on for some fresh ideas of what entertainment children might like at a party or to keep them entertained at a wedding! From balloon modellers and magicians to a range of unusual entertainers search and find the perfect acts to keep kids happy. Read More

Children remember a great party all their lives, so when you are hosting an event for youngsters, why not think about treating them to their own entertainer?

Whether you want a roving Santa Claus, or a zany theatre performer for a show to help children think big and dream big, there will be someone out there who will contribute to the party experience.

Children love made up characters and figures - nothing hits the mark than a grown up in crazy clothes! So what about giving them their own super-story telling, vibrant verse maker, pirate poet? Throw in some first class ventriloquism and you have a room full of fascinated children hanging on every word of your strolling story teller. It's gentle, funny and undemanding entertainment, perfect for groups of young children where there may be mixed abilities. If you're looking for something that's easy and inclusive, a strolling Story Teller might give your party a fun focus.

Take a look at all our performers - and be inspired by the choice of professional children's entertainers, who will be delighted to help you create a unforgettable event.

The greatest Pirate, Mermaid or Princess adventure on the seven seas is here; Happiness guaranteed or you don't pay! I can also adapt to any theme you may have from Paw Patrol to Shopkins, Pokemon and even Star Wars. Serving MD,DC,VA ... (more)

Based in: Bristol / South Glos, South West
Performs: Nationwide (8 Reviews)

CHRIS P TEE is a full time, Magic Circle Magician, the Kidology UK Children's Entertainer of the Year 2018-19.
He Fills a Room with the Sound of Laughter.
ENQUIRIES 01454 858586 / 07976 884254... (more)

Mad Dominic is a Top Close Up Comedy Walk Around Table Magician, Stilt walker, Meet n Greet, and Children’s Entertainer, Balloon modeler And Much Much More, Based in the Midlands and Available Worldwide.... (more)

Based in East Anglia, Steff does a range of different Bubble Shows, from educational/school shows, and science based birthday parties to gigantic outdoor bubbles for fetes and festivals etc.
... (more)

A Real-bearded, year-round professional Santa living in North Texas via the North Pole. Here to bring Love, Hope and Joy to children of all ages. Photo sessions, gift distribution, story time, and even a Musical Christmas trivia game. ... (more)

Based in: Bognor Regis, South East
Performs: Within 50 Miles (4 Reviews)

An amazing bubble act for Parties, Corporate events and more - with giant bubbles, smokey bubbles, bubble tricks and for the big finale audience members get to go inside a bubble! Work shops for the children to make giant bubbles are also available. ... (more)

Full party childrens entertanment for your childs birthday Party or event with magic show, live rabbit, balloon modelling, games, music etc. Based in Derbyshire and available through out the UK. ... (more)

Chris. K. is a Magician and Children's entertainer. Add a touch of magic infused with laughter to your party or event. With over 30 years experience. Chris is available for children's and adult parties. An entertainer who really does entertain!... (more)

We all know Events can cost a fortune! So why do people spend so much on their events? It’s because they want their event to be REMEMBERED, however sadly after just a few months, most people have FORGOTTEN. See how we can help this not happen... (more)

Mr Agadoo produces a Professional Muppet style Puppet show featuring Black Lace lead vocalist Dene Michael celebrity ! Mr Agadoo is based in Leeds in the North of England and is available worldwide.... (more)

Chris's show is one that is fun, upbeat, and exciting to watch. His combination of comedy and magic is absolutely hilarious. Chris brings up multiple audience participants on stage throughout his show and makes them feel like they are the star of the show.... (more)

Creating lasting memories and excitement with balloons and bubbles for the past 20 years has been my tradition. I specialize in celebrations of any kind: birthday parties, baptisms, Bar and Bat Mitzvah, corporate events, trade shows, country clubs, fundraisers... (more)

The magical world of The Insect Circus invites the audience to forget reality and become immersed in the strange and beautiful world of insects. Beetles and grasshoppers, wasps and dragonflies, demonstrate their dexterity with great skill and humour. ... (more)

Based in: Essex, East of England
Performs: Within 50 Miles (15 Reviews)

Magic Frostie presents magical family entertainment. Including mind-blowing magic, hilarious comedy and incredible puppets.
Magic Frostie is also a professional close up magician for adults too.
... (more)

The Pied Piper of Magic
When you are planning any party or event whether it be large or small and you think of magic, look no further than Madeleine The Magician! Children's parties of any age? YES! Adult Strolling and Close Up Magic? YES!... (more)

We provide interactive and epic motivational shows for children and families! We promote Making right choices, leadership, teamwork, following directions and caring & sharing just to name a few. We encourage audience interaction, dancing, singing and plenty of fun!... (more)

Klash performs interactive feats of hilarity, a juggling jester, a balloon buffoon and a comical magician. He's available for shows and walk around entertainment for fairs, festivals, corporate and private events... (more)

Rusty Pliers, Comedy Magician Ventriloquist is from St. Louis Missouri. Rusty is considered one of the top Family and Children Entertainer’s in the Country. Rusty performs over 200 clean, hilarious, and interactive children and family shows each year. ... (more)

Based in: East Lothian, Scotland
Performs: Within 50 Miles (no reviews)

Hello my name is Lori and I'm a Professional Face painter and Glitter Tattoo Artist covering Edinburgh the Lothian and Borders . I also provide fantastic day courses for beginners in face painting.... (more)

DJ Jazzy is next level when it comes to Family Entertainment and is the new generation of Children's music focused on providing family oriented entertainment services specifically targeted to young people.... (more)

William the Wizard is a children's entertainer and kids' magician offering AMAZING FUN, value for money stress-free kids parties. He is based in Nottinghamshire, UK and available to entertain throughout the UK... (more)

Duo of performing mermaids available for shows and water performances. Amaze your guests with beautiful professional mermaids who can sing and talk to your guests aswell as swimming alongside them in highly realistic mermaid tails... (more)

Rollo is a quality professional children's entertainer who can present magic, punch & Judy, games and circus skills.
He can provide a kids cabaret suited to a family audience or a complete children's party.
He has over 20 years experience in entertainment.... (more)

Bubbles of all shapes and sizes spiced with plenty of laughter and audience participation are enjoyed by all ages. Shows include amazing cubic bubbles, bubble ping pong and bubble walls and of course, the "mandatory" kids in bubble. Bubble workshops are also possible... (more)

Hi, I’m Keith Tusing and I have been making children laugh for over 20 years. I am a Balloon Artist and a kid show expert. You may choose from amazing options sure to entertain your young guests. Our parties are interactive, silly, FUN and your children will LOVE it!... (more)

Interactive clean family fun, laughter & mystery including TRIXY, a live entertaining rabbit. Whether she’s performing close-up, a magic or hypnosis show Cindini will make your event both magical and memorable!
... (more)

Your Complete Guide to Booking a CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINER

Finding the right Children’s Entertainer is easy with our unique and comprehensive guide, bursting with essential tips and answers to all those niggling questions. We help you to book with confidence, so that you and your guests can relax and enjoy a truly fantastic and memorable event!

WHAT WILL A children's entertainer DO AT YOUR EVENT?

Children’s Entertainers provide shows especially tailored to youngsters. They are highly-skilled performers who have a natural rapport with children and know how to capture their imaginations, bringing fun, excitement and generally much hilarity to parties and special occasions.

There are many different kinds of children’s entertainer, including Bubble Performers, Balloon Modellers, Magicians, Puppeteers, Costume Characters, Face Painters and Clowns. They will all keep your kids engrossed with fast-paced, interactive shows, full of games and high jinks.

So, kick back and let us guide you through some of the most popular kinds of Children’s Entertainers available to hire for your event

WHAT TYPE OF EVENTS ARE children's entertainers HIRED FOR?

Children’s Entertainers cater to birthday parties, family fun days, community events, Christmas parties, Bar Mitzvahs, weddings, and other special occasions. Whether your event is centred around children or adults, if there are children there, the chances are they will need entertaining!

Perhaps you’re getting married and you would like to hire a performer to keep younger guests occupied during your wedding breakfast or drinks reception.

Or it could be that you’ve invited some of your little one’s school friends over for a birthday party and you’re wondering how on earth you’re going to keep them all entertained for the whole afternoon.

To make planning and holding your event stress-free, we recommend hiring a reliable, friendly and professional entertainer to take the strain. This will allow you to focus on your party preparations, and once guests arrive, who knows, you may even have time to chat to a few of your friends!

Children’s parties have become something of an art form in recent years. Gone are the days when a few balloons and a game of pass the parcel were sufficient to keep the troops happy. Children over 5 in particular will need a bit more stimulation.

Rather than plonking them in front of the telly, computer or Xbox, why not opt for a Children’s Entertainer, who will get the children talking, engaging, moving around and even learning something. You might be surprised to see how much the kids enjoy a more traditional form of entertainment.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT children's entertainer FOR YOUR EVENT

This will partly be down to the age of the children. Toddlers and children between 3 and 5 will usually enjoy Face Painters and Balloon Modellers while Magicians may have more appeal for slightly older children and teenagers.

Another consideration is space. If you’re hiring a Magician or a Puppeteer, they may need a larger area than other entertainers.

Most Children’s Entertainers can work indoors or outdoors and are able to adapt their shows accordingly, although Bubble Performers and Football Freestylers are particularly well-suited to outdoor events.

Balloon Modellers

Great for children of primary school age, Balloon Modellers work at high speed, inflating and twisting balloons into incredible shapes, making cars, bicycles, aeroplanes, flowers, funny hats, animals, cartoon characters and even giant balloon jewellery! The children get to keep these brilliant creations and will often even get to have a go at balloon sculpting themselves.

This is a highly enjoyable and interactive experience that will delight children at any event and keep them entertained for as long as necessary.

Bubble Performers

These fantastic entertainers are always a hit because everyone loves bubbles!

Big bubbles, small bubbles, totally enormous bubbles that a person can stand in, smoke-filled bubbles, bubbles on fire, bubbles inside bubbles, bubbles that fill an entire room, bubble tricks, bubble hats, geometrical bubbles, there is no end of possibilities.

This is guaranteed enjoyment and the children love getting involved. Lots of Bubble Performers also offer fun, interactive bubble workshops, where kids can learn about the science behind bubble magic.

Bubble Performers can perform outdoors or indoors (putting special sheeting down to protect the floor if the show is inside), although some tricks, such as extra large bubbles, may only work indoors, where there is no breeze.

Speak to your entertainer about the option of background music as an added extra.

To contact one of our extraordinary Bubble Performers simply click on the Contact Form on their profile and ask any questions you may have, as well as requesting a free, no-obligation quote.

Children's Magicians

Children’s Magicians will appeal to children of different ages but especially 5 to 11. They are a popular choice for weddings, where they can be relied upon to keep younger guests entertained during slower parts of the day. They are also a great option for birthday parties, Christmas parties, family fun days and festivals.

They offer high-energy, fast-moving shows including a huge array of tricks and plenty of humour. Not only will children be astonished by mind-blowing magic and end up doubled over with laughter, it’s pretty entertaining for any adults watching too!

If your party is for a special little person, they will be made to feel like the star of the show as they join in with tricks, and older children may even learn how to perform a few themselves!

It’s worth taking a look as these performers are truly fantastic, and you’ll find that some of them are even members of the prestigious Magic Circle, an elite society for only the most talented magicians! You never know but seeing a live magican close-up might inspire your child to want to train and join the Young Magicians Club - organised by the magic Circle to nurture and promote magic for children in the UK.

Clowns

With their oversized, brightly coloured outfits and daft antics, Clowns can make just about anyone smile. In addition to goofy, giggle-inducing ‘clowning around’ they have many talents and can perform a wide range of routines such as juggling, balloon modelling, magic tricks, puppet shows, mime, story-telling, acrobatics and dancing!

So, for a large dose of comedy and slapstick, hire one of our wacky Clowns. These flexible acts can easily adapt their routines to suit different venues and occasions, performing for longer or shorter stints as required, so they are also great for charity fundraisers, family parties, school and community events, circus-themed celebrations and wedding breakfast entertainment.

One thing to bear in mind is that very young children can sometimes be frightened of clowns. However, being sensitive performers who are used to working with young children, most are totally non-scary (some don’t even wear make-up) and they generally go down a storm.

This is a great option for a stress-free party, where youngsters get to take part in fun and games galore, and the birthday boy or girl will get to be the star of the show.

Costumed Characters

This form of entertainment has become hugely popular in recent years and is suitable for birthday parties, slumber parties, bedtime stories, discos, family celebrations, fun days, daycare events and wedding breakfasts.

For young fans of Elsa from the Disney movie Frozen, Spongebob Squarepants, Harry Potter, Minions or Peppa Pig, what could be more exciting than the arrival of a costumed entertainer bringing their favourite character to life?

There are hundreds of characters to choose from, or perhaps your child loves pop stars, mermaids, princesses or pirates. You can hire this kind of character too.

Speak to our entertainers about the different packages they offer, including fake snow, bubbles, smoke machines, LED lights, props, craft activities and discos. By visiting their profiles, you’ll see which characters they offer and what kind of events they specialise in. You can also view photos, read testimonials and use the contact form to ask any questions you may have, or to request a free, no-obligation quote.

So, bring your party to life and light up your little one’s face, while giving your event the wow factor, with one of our professional Costumed Characters.

Face Painters

Children from 3 years old, right up to teenagers (and even adults) adore having their faces painted, whether it’s with pretty decorations of glittery flowers and butterflies, or a total transformation into their favourite animal, character or superhero.

There’s no need to worry about bad skin reactions to the paints, as only safe, water-based and hypoallergenic materials are used.

It can be a good idea to arrange other forms of entertainment alongside face painting, as the children take it in turns. This means they have other activities to enjoy while they wait. It’s also worth letting your painter know how many children will be at your event and making sure you book them for long enough to paint everyone. If in doubt, the act will be able to advise you.

If you are hiring a bouncy castle or soft play area, make sure you check with the hire company as they may not allow children with painted faces to play on them.

Puppeteers

Puppetry is an ancient and popular form of entertainment, full of bold characters, often getting up to mischief. Children will be mesmerised as the puppets come to life, under the skillful hand of the puppeteer.

With gripping and humorous stories played out with dramatic flair, complete with silly voices, a puppet show brings a theatrical element to your event and is perfect for keeping young minds occupied.

Most puppeteers set their stage up in a central location while children sit around and watch the magic appear. The shows are usually interactive, with plenty of audience participation and the birthday boy or girl taking part in the show if they wish.

Puppets today come in all shapes and sizes, from the traditional Punch and Judy to wooden insect marionnettes, fluffy animal characters and muppet-style puppets.

Whether you choose a tried and tested puppet show, or something new and unique, you can expect funny songs, games and all-round excitement. You may even get bubbles, tricks and other routines thrown in.

HOW MUCH DOES A CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINER COST TO HIRE

Each Children’s Entertainer will have their own set fees depending on their experience and the type of show they offer.

Standard shows will generally range from £200 to £400 in the UK ($400 in the U.S. and 450 € in Europe). Shows with very elaborate props and equipment, or from high-profile performers, will be £500+ ($500+ in the U.S. and 560+ € in Europe).

Children’s Entertainers tend to charge more at key times of year such as Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

As with booking any act, we advise that it’s worth paying for a reliable performer who will turn up on time and deliver a great evening’s entertainment. See our Essential Tips below for information on booking terms and conditions.

Our entertainers’ directory is the perfect tool to help you find the right Children’s Entertainer for your budget. You can easily search for the best acts in your area and message them directly. Some acts even include a rough price guide in their profile.

Since prices do vary widely, we highly recommend getting in touch with your chosen performer for a completely free, no-obligation quote.

HOW LONG WILL THEY PERFORM FOR?

Children’s Entertainers are highly versatile and can adapt their set lengths to suit many different types of event.

A standard show will usually be between 45 minutes and 2 hours but sometimes a short 15-minute set is all that’s required. If your event is going on all day, your entertainer may be happy to perform for several hours, with breaks in between.

Simply ask your entertainer if they can accommodate any special requests. If they can, they will.

SUITABLE VENUES FOR CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINERS

All venue types are potentially suitable for Children’s Entertainers. They can perform in houses, gardens, parks, theatres, community centres, churches, social clubs, shopping centres, hotels, resorts and wedding venues..

STAGE SIZE

As children’s acts vary so much depending on the activities, props and equipment involved, as well as the number of children attending, we advise bookers to ask the entertainer how much space they require for the event in question.

As a rough guide, we recommend the following minimum stage size / performance area for different children’s act types (measurements are width x depth):

Balloon Modeller: 2.5m x 2.5m

Bubble Performer: 3m x 3.5m (for open air bubble fun, a big open grassy area is ideal, with enough space for the children to run around and chase bubbles)

Children’s Magician: 2.5m x 2.5m

Clown: 2.5m x 2.5m

Costumed Character: 2.5m x 2.5m

Face Painter: 2m x 2m (room for a small table and two chairs)

Puppeteer: 2.5m x 4.5m

Please note, these size guidelines are for performers and their equipment only. You will need to factor in further space for audience members and guests!

If in doubt about whether your venue is suitable, ask your chosen entertainer. They will be happy to advise prior to booking.

BACKSTAGE AREA

Children’s Entertainers will need a private, room away from the guests, ideally with a mirror, to get changed, warm up and relax in between sets. A small, lockable room or back office may be sufficient if there’s no custom-made dressing room available.

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR BOOKING A CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINER

How far in advance should I book?

Popular entertainers get booked up months in advance. Weekends are often busy times and Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve get booked up well in advance. So, get your booking in nice and early!

WHAT EQUIPMENT AND SET Up REqUIREMENTS WILL THERE BE?

Balloon Modellers will bring all their own equipment and require very little by way of set up time. They may require a power supply close to where they will be performing, so it’s best to check this when booking.

A Bubble Performer will need approximately one hour to set up and is likely to need a power supply.

Children’s Magicians and Clowns will provide their own props and will usually arrive around 30 minutes before they are due to perform. If you are hiring a more elaborate show, with PA system and lighting, more set up time will be needed and this should be discussed with the individual performer.

If they are using animals, such as doves or rabbits, in their show, they will need a quiet, clean storage area for these. Some magic tricks involve fire or smoke effects, so you will need to get permission for this from the venue and make sure they won’t set off smoke alarms.

Magicians and Clowns may require a power supply and if your venue is outdoors, make sure the act is aware of this.

Costumed Characters will provide all of their own costumes, make-up, props and equipment. If they are providing extra activities or a disco, you’ll need to discuss with your act what their set up requirements are.

Face Fainters will bring all their own paints and brushes and only require a small table and two chairs. They can provide this, unless you would prefer them to use ones already at the venue. They can also bring a cloth to protect the table from spills.

Puppeteers will need an area large enough for their puppet theatre, themselves and their puppets and props behind it (see Stage Size guidelines above). A portable puppet show with props, scripting, puppets and sound equipment will usually take around 40 minutes to set up.

Do I need to PROVIDE FOOD?

They may have travelled some distance to get to your event and have a long day ahead. For daytime performances, acts will require soft drinks and tea or coffee free of charge. For extra long or evening events, you should provide a proper meal as well. This will be much appreciated!

DO I NEED TO PAY A DEPOSIT

Entertainers usually require a deposit of around 15-20% of the overall cost, in order to secure the booking. This protects the performer against lost income in the event of cancellation, and also gives you reassurance that you have a confirmed booking.

WILL I HAVE TO COVER TRAVEL EXPENSES?

These will usually be included in the quote you are given, as the singer will need to calculate their travel costs, especially if they are travelling some distance.

Cancellation and Insurance

What happens if the act cancels?

Thankfully this rarely happens, but in the unlikely event that, due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances, the singer is unable to perform for you as agreed, they will usually have a contingency plan. This means they can send a similar performer in their place, at no extra cost to you. For confirmation of this, you can check the Terms and Conditions in your contract.

What happens if our event is cancelled?

If you are in the unlucky position of having to cancel your event, there will be a cancellation fee. The amount usually increases the closer it gets to the event date. For example, cancelling 90 days before the event might incur 75% of the overall fee, while cancelling less than 30 days prior might mean paying the entire sum.

These conditions should be laid out in the contract you receive when booking, so check before signing. If you have any reason to think your event may not go ahead as planned, it would be better to let your act know as soon as possible.

DBS CHECKS

When hiring entertainment for children, additional care needs to be taken to ensure their safety. While many Children’s Entertainers have DBS clearance (police checks carried out by the Disclosure and Barring Service), the law on this changed in 2018.

Children’s Entertainers (unlike social workers, teachers and other employees who work regularly with children) are not in a caring or teaching role and are not left alone with children. Therefore, it is up to you to ensure that a responsible adult is present to supervise throughout the duration of their act.

While some schools and local authorities may require DBS checks for entertainers who work for them on a regular basis, it is not obligatory for Children’s Entertainers to undergo DBS checking and this should not be made a requirement of booking.

For more information on DBS checking, visit the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Finding an entertainer with a good reputation is the best way to ensure that you are hiring a trustworthy and reliable performer. Many of the acts on our directory will include testimonials on their profiles from previous satisfied customers.

Insurance / Risk Assessment

Ideally, the venue and the act you hire will have Public Liability Insurance. This covers you and them in the event of a claim, should any members of the public or guests be injured at your event, or any damage be caused to property.

If your act is a member of Equity, a trade union that represent live performers in the entertainment industry in the UK (the American Guild of Variety Artists or the Actors' Equity Association in the U.S. and various unions and societies in Europe), this gives you extra reassurance that they are professional and trustworthy, fully insured and abiding by industry standard contracts.

Clarify in Advance!

When it comes to practicalities, it’s always better to discuss them in advance, to avoid any unexpected hitches on the day. Whatever questions you have, however silly they might seem to you, you can bet they’ve heard them before, and worse! So, don’t be shy - good communication is the key to planning a great event.

HOW TO BOOK A CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINER

Booking a Children’s Entertainer is easy with Entertainers Worldwide. You can search through different acts, view their profiles and read their all-important reviews. Some of our listed acts also include video samples of their performances.

Once you’ve found the act you want to book, simply use the contact form on their profile page. We are not an agency, so you can deal directly with your chosen entertainer, with no extra booking fees or commission to pay.

How can I find and book a CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINER for an event near me?

Using Entertainers Worldwide, you can search and browse hundreds of Balloon Modellers, Clowns, Puppeteers and much more!

Zippy the Clown is a Fantastic Entertainer and was a huge hit with all the Kids and even the Adults. The Zippy The Clown Show is outstanding and very entertaining for kids and even adults. Would highly recommend.

The kids and adults alike were laughing out loud the whole time and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Mr. Noyszewski arrived on time, performed the full show, and let the kids meet and pet the bunnies before and after. He was very professional and scheduling was a breeze. I highly recommend and will likely book again in the future.
[ There were instances where I really had no idea at all how an illusion was done and briefly entertained the thought that he is, in fact, a wizard -- it would be a pretty safe hustle for a wizard to do and stay under the radar! ;) ]

Amazing entertainer and fabulous with the children has the patience of a saint. We were actually winners of a party package through a competition, and he was very true to his word and turn up on time on the day, my son loves him, and Mr Pepperpot, remembered my sons likes and played him his favourite song without even promoting.